The study of philosophy is significant to all who wish to live in a reflective and critical manner. At Yeshiva College, courses in philosophy cover the full range of historical periods. Students closely study many of the classic texts in the field, examine differing areas of philosophical inquiry, and learn rigorous methods of argument. Issues that affect our daily lives are central to philosophical inquiry and analysis: ethics, morality, the nature of knowledge and meaning, the character of the world, freedom, justice, and much more. Philosophy explores fundamental problems of human existence. Virtually every area of human activity-art, science, religion, politics-generates questions and ideas that call for philosophical reflection. As Socrates taught, the unexamined life is not worth living. Philosophy is a discipline unique in its methods and subject matter. Studying its sources and mastering its methods are invaluable in your general undergraduate education. You will learn to analyze complex ideas carefully and clearly to eschew vague, impressionistic thinking in favor of critical, rigorous, precise reflection to read with care, curiosity and wonder to write in an organized and persuasive fashion.
Students need to have: Official High School Transcript. If your transcript is not in English or Hebrew, it must be accompanied by a certified translation and evaluation from a NACES approved agency. Transcripts and translations should be sent directly to YU from the issuing institution; Two Letters of Recommendation; Essay (500-750 words); Optional: SAT or ACT Scores.